Nagpur: The 35th Munshi Memorial Inter-school Debate competition saw students delving into the impact of technology on education, echoing the sentiment that clinging to traditional teaching methods risks hindering future generations. However, this perspective was met with a compelling counterargument likening technology to a double-edged sword, initially appealing but potentially detrimental to emotional and interpersonal connections.
This annual event, held in honor of Dr. K. M. Munshi, the Founder of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, brought together students from various schools for a spirited discussion on a topic of contemporary relevance.
Zainab Balarpurwala from Delhi Public School, Kamptee Road clinched the first prize, followed by Mrudula Nerkar from Bhavan’s B P Vidya Mandir, Srikrishna Nagar, who secured the second prize. Shahan Sengupta from Bhavan’s Civil Lines Branch took home the third prize, while Sharvi Sudhir Khursade from Bhavan’s Lloyds Vidya Niketan, Wardha, earned the upcoming debater trophy. The coveted Munshi Memorial Debate Rolling Trophy was awarded to Delhi Public School, Kamptee Road.
Participants showcased exceptional argumentative skills and provided multi-dimensional perspectives on the topic, leaving the audience thoroughly engaged and convinced by their arguments.
During the event, the school magazine and Year Book 2023-24, “Vartapatrakam,” were unveiled by esteemed dignitaries. R. Ramakrishnan, Co-Founder and Chairman of aXYKno Capital Eartha & Mackintosh Global Partners, presided over the event as the chairperson, while the judging panel comprised Dr. Prantik Banerjee, Dr. Urmila Dabir, and Aasawari Shenolikar.
Dr. Banerjee emphasized the importance of turning debates into dialogues, envisioning a future that balances technology with human touch, where mistakes serve as valuable learning experiences.
Dr. Sunanda Sonarikar, Secretary of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Nagpur Kendra, and other dignitaries graced the occasion, acknowledging the successful execution of the program under the guidance of Anju Bhutani, Principal of Bhavan’s B P Vidya Mandir, Civil Lines, and the dedicated efforts of event coordinators Ashu Khanna and Nidhi Purohit.